The FSAB will bring together senior leaders from across the food system to advise on a “clear vision and framework for change”.
The cross-government food strategy will aim to “restore pride in British food”, while providing more easily accessible and affordable healthy food to tackle diet-related ill health, maintaining the nation’s food security by building resilience in the face of climate shocks and geopolitical changes, reducing the impact of farming and food production on biodiversity and climate, and ensuring growth is at the heart of the strategy.
Minister for food security and rural affairs, Daniel Zeichner MP, will act as chair, with the board initially set to meet on a monthly basis.
Defra has worked closely with the Institute of Grocery Distribution (IGD) to build out the board, and the IGD will act as a co-secretariat for its meetings.
The IGD will also act as a neutral convenor on the food strategy and engagement across the food system.
“Unhealthy diets are driving skyrocketing obesity rates, food security is under pressure from climate change and the way our supply chain works means some farmers are struggling to make a profit,” Zeichner said.
“Our cross-government food strategy will make sure our food system can continue to feed the nation, realise its potential for economic growth, protect the planet, and nourish individuals, now and in the future.
“By bringing together expertise from across the food chain, this new advisory board will help us build a more resilient, sustainable, and equitable food system for everyone. I look forward to chairing these vital discussions and working together to deliver meaningful change.”
Chief medical officer for England, Professor Chris Whitty also warned against the dangers of neglecting food as a national concern.
“A poor diet increases the risk of serious and long-term diseases including diabetes, cardiovascular disease and some cancers,” he said.
“Adapting our food system so that it is easier for people to eat healthy, balanced diets will have a positive impact on population health.”
Meanwhile, Institute of Grocery Distribution CEO, Sarah Bradbury, said the organisation was delighted to have been granted the opportunity to support Defra and support stakeholders from across the supply chain.
“Working collaboratively, we relish the chance to work in a different way, interpreting the needs of industry, government, and society,” Bradbury added.
Provision Trade Federation (PTF) director general Rod Addy called for the introduction of a national food strategy during his address at the annual PTF dinner earlier this month and said that the trade body welcomed the announcement.
“The country is overdue a comprehensive food strategy that encompasses the whole supply chain, from farmers to ingredients suppliers, primary, secondary and tertiary processors to packagers, wholesalers, distributors, logistics providers, foodservice and retail stakeholders, consumers and waste handlers,” he told Food Manufacture.
“It is vital to get to understand and involve all these elements in order to address food security in the volatile times in which we live and promote a thriving domestic food industry. We look forward to engaging with this group as it begins its work.”
Addy also urged the government to allow stakeholder groups to offer input: “To leave some out would be to neglect vital perspectives. All representatives have their place. This strategy must also dovetail with the government’s trade strategy for food, as a robust food security plan can only be achieved through a balanced approach to import and export.”
